Instead, a strong indication that Trump is preparing to issue a highly classified covert action finding that would authorize the CIA to engage in violent action against the cartels. While an FTO ...

CIA Director John Ratcliffe plans to apply ... could allow for expanded intelligence operations and potential covert action, though former officials warn it could be perceived as a precursor ...

But a foreign terrorist designation might enable covert action against cartels under any existing findings, he said. The CIA has a long, secretive role in the fight against narcotics trafficking ...

But the more recent flights were communicated to Congress by the Trump administration using a particular notification reserved for new or updated covert programs that the CIA intends either to ...

The CIA has sent drones on secret missions over Mexico to spy on drug cartels — and may use them for armed strikes, according to former and current officials. The covert missions, carried out ...

The covert program, begun during the Biden administration ... have repeatedly promised more intense action against Mexican drug cartels. Increasing the drone flights was a quick initial step.